Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA
If you have type 1 diabetes, you might notice that you bruise more easily and that your bruises take longer to heal compared to others. This isn't just in your head! It is a well-documented phenomenon. Dealing with this can be painful and frustrating. You might feel like your body is betraying you, or that you'll never be able to fully recover from small injuries. Don't worry! You are not alone in this. People the world over manage bruising because of their diabetes. PatientsLikeMe has an overview of why this happens and the steps you can take to prevent it.
Why Do People with Diabetes Bruise More Easily?
Bruises happen when there's an injury to the tissues below the skin. The injury causes small blood vessels (capillaries) to burst. This results in blood leaking out under the skin, which shows up as colorful marks that can be blue, purple, or black. People with diabetes have high levels of glucose (sugar) in their blood. Over time, this high blood sugar can affect your blood vessels and nerves. High glucose levels can make your blood vessels stiff and narrow, reducing blood flow. This means less oxygen and nutrients reach your skin, making it harder for your body to heal bruises and injuries.
Diabetes can also damage your nerves, especially in your hands and feet. This can lead to a loss of sensation, so you might not notice small injuries that can turn into bruises. Finally, diabetes can also weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. This can cause bruises to take longer to heal and increase the risk of complications.
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Recognizing Serious Bruises
While most bruises heal on their own, some signs indicate that a bruise might be more serious and needs medical attention.
- The bruise gets larger after the injury.
- It lasts more than two weeks.
- It appears without a clear reason.
- The affected limb feels swollen or tight.
- The bruise is around your eye and affects your vision.
- You feel unwell with symptoms like fever, weight loss, or night sweats.
Managing Bruises with Diabetes
So, if you bruise easily, what can you do to manage the symptoms? Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take. The first step is to make sure you have a healthy diet. Eat foods rich in vitamins that help maintain healthy skin and blood vessels. These include:
- Vitamin C: Found in fruits like oranges, berries, and mangoes.
- Vitamin K: Found in leafy green vegetables.
- Folate and Vitamin B12: Found in fortified cereals and lean meats.
Ice therapy can also help! Put ice on a new bruise for about 10 minutes to reduce pain and swelling. Always wrap the ice in a towel to protect your skin. It turns out that both ice and heat are beneficial! Use warm compresses on a bruise after 2-3 days to help increase blood flow and aid healing. Keeping your blood sugar levels within a target range can help your body heal bruises more effectively as well.
Diabetic Dermopathy: “Shin Spots”
Diabetic dermopathy, often called "shin spots," is a common skin condition in people with diabetes. It appears as small, round, reddish-brown patches on the skin, usually on the shins. These spots can look like scars and may be slightly indented. The exact cause of diabetic dermopathy is not entirely understood, but it is linked to the damage high blood sugar causes to blood vessels and nerves. It is more common in older adults and people who have had diabetes for many years.
There's no specific treatment for diabetic dermopathy. Managing your blood sugar levels can help prevent it from worsening. Keep track of your blood sugar levels and follow your diabetes management plan. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. Wearing long socks or shin guards can help prevent trauma to your legs, which can trigger new spots.
Self-Care Tips
While you can't always prevent bruising or diabetic dermopathy, taking steps to manage your diabetes effectively can help. Here are some tips:
- Wear Protective Gear: If you play sports or engage in physical activities, wearing protective gear can reduce the risk of bruises.
- Keep Your Home Safe: Use slip-resistant rugs and clear walking paths to avoid accidents.
- Get Enough Vitamins: Ensure your diet includes plenty of vitamin C and other nutrients that support skin health.
If you notice bruises that don’t heal, seem unusually large, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor. They can check for other underlying issues and help you manage your diabetes effectively.
Living with type 1 diabetes comes with various challenges. Skin issues like easy bruising and diabetic dermopathy shouldn't stop you from enjoying activities you love! By understanding why these issues occur and taking proactive steps to manage your diabetes, you can minimize their impact on your life. If you ever have concerns about your bruises or skin conditions, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for advice and support.
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